1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1996 Mazda RX-01
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-01 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-01 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1996 Mazda RX-01 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 1000 | RX-01 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2350 mm |
